Coast Guard assures investigation into sailor's shooting death

The Trinidad and Tobago Coast Guard (TTCG) says investigations are currently ongoing into the circumstances surrounding the death of a sailor, who was accidentally shot in the head by a colleague on Tuesday.

The Coast Guard issued a brief statement on Tuesday night, advising of the 'unfortunate' passing of one of its members, who it said was on border patrol duty at the time of the incident.

No further details were provided.

The TTCG also extended condolences to the family of the sailor and asked that their privacy be respected during these difficult times.

According to reports, around 4.45 pm Ordinary Seaman Gyasi Richardson was on board the TTPS Speyside, which was on exercise near Chacachacare Island, when he was shot.

Police say Richardson was shot in head, following the accidental discharge of another sailor's service issued firearm.

Richardson was taken to the St James Facility where he died.

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